Cultivating Gratitude in Children
CULTIVATING GRATITUDE IN CHILDREN
By Lisa Keane | MAMFC, LPC-S, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST SUPERVISOR, NCC
‘I want that trampoline for Christmas.'
'Can I have this princess house?'
'Today, can you buy me that Hello Kitty Bike?'
These are common statements my three-year-old daughter makes as we walk down the toy aisle of our local store. As she walks by all sorts of toys, games, and crafts, she will often make a verbal list of all she intends to get for the next Christmas or birthday. As a mom, I can get very frustrated with these questions, and sometimes, these demands. As a counselor, I must remind myself this is also developmentally appropriate behavior. She is only three and is just now learning about a world outside of herself.
But, in that moment, I am also reminded it is my job to TEACH and SHOW her a world outside of herself. If I or her dad do not teach her this, we certainly will have failed to teach her what truly matters in life. Instead, we will easily raise a child who is more interested in stuff or material things than a child who is interested in what matters to God. Most importantly, if we are not MODELING this behavior, she will not see the importance of helping and praying for others instead of focusing on herself.
Matthew 24:50 says, "And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me."
How in the world do you help a child grasp this biblical concept of helping the least of these?
TEACH
Even at a very young age, begin introducing scripture memory in your home that pertains to helping others to glorify God. Matthew 24:50 is a great verse to start with. Talk to your kids about those that have struggles, who are hurting or in need. Open their world up to see not everyone lives the same life as they do.
SHOW
I cannot think of a better way to help kids begin to learn about those in need than watching this short video, The Walter Show. Watch this video with your kids and help them see how there are kids just like them who need their support.
MODEL
Get involved with ministry. You can organize or help your child organize a donation drive. Let them use their money to donate or buy items for those in need. Take your child with you as you shop for those in need and talk to them about why you are doing it.
Also, spend time as a family praying for those in The Walter Show video — for kids like “Mikey” who do not get to live with their parents. Since kids learn more from seeing than hearing, this active modeling will make a great impact on how your child views the world.
Remember, if you don't take the time to intentionally teach your child about helping others, who will?